Facing RICO charges in New York City means confronting some of the most aggressive prosecutors and highest-stakes criminal allegations in the system. Federal and New York RICO cases allow the government to bundle multiple charges into a single prosecution, often exposing defendants to lengthy prison sentences, forfeiture, and permanent damage to their reputations. We defend individuals and business owners across NYC who need a focused strategy, early intervention, and a defense built for complex enterprise cases.
RICO investigations move quickly and are often built over months or years before an arrest is made. When you contact The Fast Law Firm early, we evaluate the structure of the case, identify pressure points in the government’s theory, and begin shaping a defense designed to limit exposure from the outset.
Why Choose The Fast Law Firm for a NYC RICO Defense
- Former Brooklyn Felony Assistant District Attorney with insider knowledge of prosecution tactics
- Led more than 25 federal and state jury trials to verdict as lead counsel
- Extensive experience handling RICO, enterprise corruption, and multi-defendant cases
- Strategic defense planning tailored to complex financial and conspiracy allegations
- Direct attorney involvement at every stage, from investigation through trial
Our background on both sides of the courtroom informs how we challenge charging decisions, cooperating witnesses, and evidence presentation in RICO cases.
An Important Consideration Before a RICO Case Moves Forward
RICO cases are often stronger on paper than they are in reality. Prosecutors rely on volume, associations, and narrative rather than direct proof of wrongdoing by each defendant. Early legal intervention can influence how charges are framed, whether certain acts are included, and how much leverage the government believes it has. Waiting to respond until after formal charges are filed can limit available options.
Understanding Federal and New York RICO Laws
RICO, short for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, allows prosecutors to charge individuals for participating in an alleged criminal enterprise rather than for isolated acts alone. Federal RICO law is frequently paired with New York’s enterprise corruption statute, which gives state prosecutors similar tools.
These laws are commonly used in cases involving allegations of organized crime, fraud schemes, narcotics distribution networks, or business-related misconduct. The structure of the statute gives the government broad charging power, but it also creates multiple legal elements that must be proven.
What Prosecutors Must Prove in a NYC RICO Case
To secure a RICO conviction, prosecutors must establish several distinct components. Weakness in any one of them can undermine the entire case.
- A pattern of racketeering activity involving at least two qualifying acts within ten years
- An enterprise, formal or informal, that has a shared purpose and structure
- A connection showing participation in the conduct or affairs of the enterprise, not mere association
- Conduct or participation in the enterprise’s affairs through the alleged acts
- Continuity, meaning ongoing or related activity rather than isolated incidents
In federal cases, prosecutors must also show that the alleged enterprise affected interstate or foreign commerce, even if that impact is minimal.
We analyze each element independently and in relation to the others, rather than accepting the prosecution’s narrative at face value.
Common Crimes Used as RICO Predicate Acts
RICO cases often rely on underlying allegations known as predicate acts. These may include:
- Drug trafficking or distribution
- Bribery or extortion
- Mail or wire fraud
- Money laundering
- Securities or investment fraud
The government must do more than list offenses. It must show how those acts are connected, who benefited, and how they furthered an alleged enterprise.
How We Defend Against RICO Charges in NYC
RICO defense requires discipline and structure. Our approach focuses on dismantling the government’s theory piece by piece.
We challenge whether the alleged acts truly form a pattern, whether an enterprise existed as described, and whether the evidence supports knowing participation. In many cases, the prosecution’s case relies heavily on cooperating witnesses, financial assumptions, or surveillance taken out of context.
Defense strategies may include:
- Attacking the continuity or relatedness of alleged acts
- Challenging the credibility and incentives of cooperating witnesses
- Disputing the existence or structure of the alleged enterprise
- Suppressing evidence obtained through unlawful searches or seizures
- Narrowing charges to reduce sentencing exposure and forfeiture risk
Every decision is guided by the specific facts of the case and the stage at which intervention occurs.
Speak With a NYC RICO Defense Attorney Today
RICO charges demand an immediate, informed response. We will review the allegations, explain what the government must prove, and outline a defense strategy aligned with your goals and risk tolerance. Contact The Fast Law Firm to discuss your case and begin protecting your future.
Frequently Asked Questions About NYC RICO Charges
Can I be charged with RICO even if I did not commit every alleged act?
Yes. Prosecutors often allege participation based on association or indirect involvement, which can be challenged.
Are RICO cases always federal?
No. New York has its own enterprise corruption statute, and some cases proceed in state court.
Do RICO cases always go to trial?
Many resolve before trial, but preparation must assume the case could be presented to a jury.
Can businesses or professionals face RICO charges?
Yes. RICO is often used in cases involving financial crimes, corporate activity, or alleged fraud schemes.